Ukraine: food relief for conflict-affected families

Ukrainian families are receiving food packages thanks to a £5,000 relief grant from BMS World Mission

For the last few months the situation in Ukraine has hit UK headlines. The protests in Kiev in February ended in almost 100 deaths, and more than 1,000 more were injured. Now, as the struggle over Crimea continues, the situation for thousands of Ukrainians across the country deteriorates – leaving many bereaved, homeless, hungry or missing.

'Local news sources estimate that about 20,000 refugees fled the Crimean peninsula after it was annexed by Russia,' says Sergey Rakhuba, President of BMS partner Russian Ministries.

'These refugees are taking refuge in churches and other charitable institutions, and churches are appealing to us for help with shelter and food.'

In partnership with Russian Ministries, BMS is meeting the needs of 160 families who are without food because of the outbreaks of violence and political uncertainty in the country. Standing alongside some of those in most need, BMS is providing emergency food rations for families which will be distributed through local churches. It’s a simple gift, something that we often take for granted, but it’s one that is bringing a little bit of hope in a time of overwhelming insecurity for struggling families across Ukraine. Thank you for enabling us to help them.

'On behalf of the entire Ukrainian nation, thank you for standing with them as they fight for their freedom,' says Sergey.

Please keep Ukraine and its people in your prayers. Pray for:

The election of a new Ukrainian president/government, scheduled for May.

Peace and reconciliation in the nation – and for talks between Russian, Ukrainian and Western leaders to focus on the welfare of Ukraine’s people.

Russian and Ukrainian pastors to stand strong and united. Pray that they will courageously lead their congregations so that churches will serve as salt and light, restoring peace and bringing healing to their nations.